The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), often referred to as food stamps, provides crucial assistance to individuals and families in Oregon facing food insecurity. This article delves into the eligibility requirements, special circumstances, and potential for receiving additional benefits in Oregon.
Who is Eligible for SNAP in Oregon?
SNAP is designed for Oregon residents who meet specific criteria:
- Residency: You must live in Oregon.
- Income Guidelines: Your household income must fall within the program’s limits. Importantly, the value of your house, car, or savings typically does not affect your eligibility.
It’s also important to note that Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) between 18 and 52 may face time limits on how long they can receive SNAP benefits.
SNAP Benefits for College Students
College students aged 18 to 49 enrolled in higher education at least half-time generally are not eligible for SNAP unless they meet a specific exemption. Higher education includes universities, colleges, trade and technical schools.
In Oregon, exemptions for higher education students may include:
- Working or self-employed for more than 20 hours per week, including internships, graduate assistantships, and fellowships.
- Participating in federal or state-funded work study programs.
- Receiving Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF).
- Receiving Unemployment Compensation.
- Enrolled in school due to employer-sponsored training.
- Participating in an Employment Department Training Program.
- Enrolled in a program leading to employment.
- Being responsible for the care of a child under 6 in a one- or two-parent household.
- Being a single parent responsible for the care of a child under 12, provided that the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) determines that adequate childcare is not available to allow the student to attend class or work at least 20 hours a week.
Students meeting an exemption must also fulfill all other SNAP eligibility requirements.
SNAP Benefits for Older Adults
Oregon provides specific considerations for older adults:
- Medical Expense Deduction: Adults aged 60 or older can deduct out-of-pocket medical expenses from their income, potentially qualifying them for increased benefits. Documentation of these costs is necessary.
- Flexible Benefit Access: Adults aged 65 or older residing in Clackamas, Columbia, Multnomah, and Washington Counties can receive SNAP benefits via direct deposit, check, or EBT card for convenience.
- Designated Payee: Older adults who have difficulty reaching stores can designate a trusted individual to make purchases on their behalf using their SNAP benefits. An alternate payee form is required.
- Shelter Costs: Full shelter costs can be considered when determining SNAP benefits for older adults.
SNAP Benefits for Eligible Non-Citizens
Non-U.S. citizens may be eligible for SNAP benefits if they belong to one of the following categories:
- Refugees, Cuban/Haitian Entrants, Asylees, Amerasian immigrants, individuals permitted to remain in the U.S. following deportation proceedings, Hmong or Highland Laotians, those paroled for at least a year, and conditional entrants.
- “North American Indians born in Canada” as defined by U.S. law.
- Citizens of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, or Palau residing in the U.S. under the Compact of Free Association (COFA).
- Certain survivors of human trafficking and their children or parents.
- U.S. veterans honorably discharged, their spouses, and unmarried dependent children.
- Non-citizens serving on active duty in the U.S. military, their spouses, and unmarried dependent children.
- Non-citizens paroled to stay in the U.S. for at least one year.
- Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) who have resided in the U.S. for a minimum of five years.
- LPRs receiving certain disability benefits.
- LPRs under the age of 18.
Participation in SNAP will not affect your ability to:
- Remain in the U.S.
- Obtain Lawful Permanent Resident (green card) status.
- Maintain your green card status.
- Become a U.S. citizen.
Enrolling in SNAP does not count toward public charge considerations.
Will Oregon Get Extra Food Stamps This Month?
Whether Oregon will get extra food stamps this month depends on several factors, including federal and state policies, economic conditions, and emergency declarations. While this article provides a general overview of SNAP eligibility and benefits in Oregon, it’s essential to stay informed about current announcements and policy changes from the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and federal agencies. Check the ODHS website and local news sources for the most up-to-date information regarding potential supplemental benefits or emergency allotments.
